We want to build long-term relationships in India: Happy Cao of Rhyguan

Flexo Image Graphics (FIG), the India distribution partner of Zhejiang Rhyguan Machinery, is set to run live demonstrations of key Rhyguan machines and technologies for providing real-time capabilities at Labelexpo India 2024, to be held on 14–17 November at India Expo Centre & Mart, Greater Noida (Stand No C13 in Hall 9).

Happy Cao, export manager, Zhejiang Rhyguan Machinery and Gourav Roy, director, Flexo Image Graphics, share how it would be an opportunity for trade visitors and potential customers to have hands-on experience with the Rhyguan products at the show. 

Aiming to deepen its presence in India, Rhyguan is expanding its distribution network, which FIG takes care of. “Significant opportunities are emerging in the region’s ever-growing label and packaging industries,” Cao says, adding, “On the innovation and technology front we are focusing on the introduction of highly advanced die-cutting & finishing machines which are automated, efficient, and cost-effective for high-quality labelling solutions.”

She adds, “We also aim at building long-term relationships with our clients in India by providing them the customised solutions and responsive service through our localised support from FIG.” 

She adds that digital printing nowadays is becoming more prevalent than before; therefore, there is a growing need for finishing equipment that can be seamlessly integrated with digital workflows. In turn, there will be quicker turnaround times, efficient handling of short-run and variable data printing, and many more. 

Roy agrees, “Certainly, manufacturers nowadays are incorporating advanced automation features into finishing equipment to reduce manual intervention, minimise error, and increase production speed through automated setup, job changeover, and real-time monitoring systems.” 

He adds, “This is how Rhyguan finishing machines are designed to handle varied substrates and finishing processes, such as die-cutting, varnishing, laminating, foil stamping… enabling label producers to offer more customised & value-added products.”

According to Cao, Rhyguan is currently approaching new product development and innovation with a strong focus on automation, building around key principles like customer-centric development and integration of advanced technologies. 

She explains, “Either in India or other growing regions, we actively engage with our customers, collect feedback from them, to understand their evolving needs and challenges in the label and packaging markets.”

The Zhejiang Rhyguan Machinery headquarters 

In India, the company provides label manufacturers full access to its machines, ensuring that they can leverage the latest technologies to stay ahead of the competition. “In this, FIG, as Rhyguan’s distribution partner plays a pivotal role in all aspects. They have been setting a good pace in advancing Rhyguan in the finishing segment of the Indian label industry.”

Roy states, “We offer comprehensive technical support, installation service, and training programmes, which eventually help label manufacturing businesses effectively integrate into new equipment. In this, we help Rhyguan understand the unique needs in the Indian label printing and production market, assisting them in customising solutions for meeting the local demands.”

When it comes to after-sales service, FIG has a dedicated team that ensures minimal downtime through prompt maintenance and support. “It is crucial for every client,” tells Roy, adding, “To stay abreast of what our customers need in the industry, we keep updated with the latest market trends and attend all major industry events, shows, seminars, etc.” FIG’s centralised Customer Support Department is operated from its main office in Delhi connecting to Mumbai and Chennai branches. 

Sharing what it takes to make Rhyguan machines different from others, Cao reveals some key strengths, viz comprehensive and customisable range of products, automation-focused innovations, sustainable solutions, and strong localised support from FIG. “When we look at the Indian market, it’s filled with many low-cost machines from local and other Asian manufacturers, which eventually create price pressure on Rhyguan’s premium product range,” she says. 

She adds, “Despite all challenges, we can tap the Indian market by offering machines that meet both cost and performance. In this, we appreciate FIG for their commitment to helping us reach a broader customer base across the country. As more businesses in India are adopting digital technologies, there is increasing demand for digital finishing solutions, which we are providing suitably for both short and medium-run jobs.” Leveraging Industry 4.0 technologies, Rhyguan in the Indian market is offering smart and affordable machines with remote diagnostics and predictive maintenance features as key differentiators. 

About the latest developments at Rhyguan, Cao says they have upgraded silkscreen modules to increase speed and material compatibility. “This upgrade helps label manufacturers indulge in faster production of diverse labels, especially those using film materials. Additionally, our foil systems now feature enhanced pressure control (up to 60T), allowing high-quality foiling & embossing embellishments, particularly on luxury labels. Also, Rhyguan Smart-450-HMS and similar machines have been improved for accurate defect detection.” 

On the sustainability front, Rhyguan has set up a new production facility in Ruian City, which is designed to minimise environmental impact by incorporating solar panels for carbon emission reduction.

In the next step, Rhyguan wants to secure its position as a leader in the label finishing market by continually improving its existing machines. “We are prioritising the newer development of digital finishing solutions, as seen in the products like Rhyguan DIG330Plus, which offer high-precision digital die-cutting with no need for traditional tooling,” said Cao, adding, “In our long-term development plan, we have set our objectives to revolve around sustainability and advanced automation. Moreover, we are integrating environmentally responsible technologies such as UV and LED curing options in our machines.”

Cao says Rhyguan is gaining ground in India with a gradual increase in client base. “During 2016-2024 (August), we have had installed 64 sets of Rhyguan machines across India. This data doesn’t include Luster Smart cameras. For Luster, we have installed 31 sets during the period,” she says. 

In her advice to Indian label manufacturers and convertors for next-level growth and long-term success in business, Cao urges them to embrace technological innovations and advanced machines which Rhyguan keeps unveiling and going to demonstrate live at Labelexpo India 2024. 

She further mentions that Rhyguan is planning to promote its products extensively across India and expand its presence in the country by participating in key industry events and shows like Labelexpo 2024. 

Roy asserts, “As we are all set for Labelexpo India 2024, this mega show will be a prolific platform for FIG to present live demos of some key and latest Rhyguan machines.” In this, Ms Cao says the show will be a prime venue for Rhyguan, FIG, and many of their partners, clients, and peers to connect and grow.